About Us

The Avian and Exotic Animal Clinic was established in 1985 and is Indiana's first veterinary practice dedicated entirely to the care of exotic and nontraditional pet species.

The Avian and Exotic Animal Clinic offers full service care including anesthesia and pain control, surgery, endoscopy and surgical sexing of birds, house calls, 24-hour emergency service and referral, behavioral consultation, and grooming. We are pleased with the fact that over half of our appointments each day are normal pets coming in for annual physical examinations and wellness check ups.

The staff of the Avian and Exotic Animal clinic includes dedicated and skilled veterinary assistants (see staff). Staff members regularly assist Dr. Lennox in the instructions of both veterinary and veterinary technician students, and have composed much of the client education materials used at the clinic.

Concentrating on avian and exotic medicine allows us to dedicate all of our experience and continuing education on these fascinating and wonderful pets.

What is an "exotic" pet?

In this context, exotic pet refers to any pet not commonly seen in traditional canine and feline practice, and includes pet birds, reptiles, rabbits, rodents, exotic cats, small hooved stock and sometimes zoo species. Although a rabbit is probably not considered "exotic" by most, care of these species requires special knowledge and training.

Why an avian and exotic veterinarian?

Traditional veterinary education usually does not adequately prepare veterinarians for the care of unusual pet species. When veterinarians attempt to treat these special species as if they were cats and dogs, serious harm can occur. Veterinarians treating exotic and non-traditional pets must make the commitment to learn about these special species, and spend continuing education time keeping up on the latest advancements in exotic pet care. Many canine and feline veterinarians are doing just that. However, at the Avian and Exotic Animal Clinic, we believe our focus on these species allows us to provide the highest and most advanced level of care possible.

Why should I take my pet to the vet if he's not sick?

Most exotic pet species are masters at hiding illness from owners. Most are prey species, and an important survival trick is to hide injury and illness to prevent predators from targeting them. Therefore, regular veterinary visits are important to help detect early indications of illness. During a normal well pet visit, the staff will go over many aspects of pet care, discuss ways to detect early disease and minimize preventable illness, and share any new advances in exotic pet care that might benefit your special pet. All new pets go home with written care instructions.

Avian & Exotic Animal Clinic of Indianapolis